Sexting is a common part of teenage communication—but when it crosses certain legal lines, it can lead to serious criminal charges. In Florida, a teen can be charged with a sex crime for sending or receiving explicit content—even if it was consensual.
Here’s what parents and teens need to know about sexting laws in Florida and how to protect a young person’s future.
⚖️ Is Sexting Illegal for Teens in Florida?
Florida has a specific teen sexting law under Florida Statute § 847.0141, which outlines penalties for minors who:
Knowingly send or receive sexually explicit images or videos
Using a phone, tablet, or computer
To or from another minor
While it’s a civil violation on a first offense, the penalties escalate fast with repeated behavior or if the images are distributed or saved.
🧠 What Charges Can a Teen Face?
1st offense: Civil citation and possible community service or school discipline
2nd offense: Misdemeanor criminal charge
3rd offense or distribution: Felony charges
If prosecutors believe there was:
Intent to harm
Coercion
Age difference or predatory behavior
…teens may be charged under adult sex crime statutes like:Transmission of material harmful to minors
Possession of child pornography
Lewd and lascivious conduct
⚠️ Even a single image can lead to sex offender registration if charged as a felony.
🛑 Can a Teen Be Labeled a Sex Offender?
Yes—but it depends on the charge.
A juvenile can be forced to register as a sex offender if:
Prosecuted as an adult
Convicted of felony sex crimes involving a minor
Charged with producing, possessing, or distributing explicit images
Florida’s sex offender registry is public and permanent—and registration can destroy college, housing, employment, and scholarship opportunities.
🧠 What If Both Teens Consented?
The law doesn’t require intent to harm. Even consensual sexting between minors can result in:
School discipline
Criminal charges
Involvement from child services or law enforcement
Digital evidence that’s difficult to erase
💡 Prosecutors are not required to file charges—but when they do, the consequences are real.
👨⚖️ Fort Lauderdale Juvenile Sex Crime Defense Lawyer
At Michael White, P.A., we defend teens charged with sexting, digital misconduct, and juvenile sex offenses. Our priority is protecting your child’s record, rights, and future.
We may negotiate for:
Diversion or dismissal
Expungement after completion of conditions
Sealing juvenile records
Avoiding felony charges or registration
🔍 More Answers About Teen Sexting and Sex Crime Charges in Florida
❓ Can a teen be charged with a sex crime for sexting in Florida?
Yes. Sexting can result in criminal charges—and in some cases, mandatory sex offender registration.
❓ What if the images weren’t shared with anyone else?
Possession alone can be a crime. Distribution or saving images increases the severity.
❓ Can a juvenile sex crime record be sealed?
Sometimes. If the teen is not adjudicated guilty and completes probation or diversion, sealing or expungement may be possible.
❓ What should I do if my child is under investigation?
Contact a lawyer immediately. Do not let your child speak to police without legal counsel present.
❓ Can schools report sexting to police?
Yes. Many sexting cases start with a report from a school, parent, or another student.